By Cornell University Extension
As winter begins with the threat of snow and ice storms, this is an annual reminder that your barns will need your attention. It is important to:
- Keep gutters and downspouts clear
- Remove snow and ice frequently and properly
- Stay up to code
- Be aware of common wintertime roof collapses
Often rooftops collapses are caused by snow refreezing on eaves, leading to ice dams or backup under shingles. There are several factors that can lead to roof collapse.
- Poor planning or improper construction
- An aged building or outdated building codes
- Allowing snow load to exceed the capacity of the roof
- Snow drift conditions caused by wind
- Rain on top of snow, which then freezes
- Clogged gutters
Is Your Roof on the Verge of Collapse?
While it’s important to ensure your roof is capable of handling winter snow loads and that it’s up to code, it’s also crucial to know the signs of an impending roof collapse. Monitor and stay aware of daily snow fall amounts and the accumulation of snow on your roof. The following are some common signs of an impending roof collapse:
- A sagging ceiling
- Wet and/or stained roof tiles
- Severe/repeated leaks
- Sagging sprinkler heads
- Doors and windows become hard to close, or pop open on their own
- Creaking or popping noises coming from the roof
If you see one or more of these signs, evacuate the building and call a qualified roofing professional or building inspector to assess the situation. These situations may indicate that your roof is at risk of collapsing and potentially causing personal injury and property damage.
